NFL draft expert Todd McShay indicated that the Redskins and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are the two teams that are the best fit for the fast back out of Tallahassee, Florida.

“Competitive runner that will lower pads and finish strong at the end of runs,” McShay said. “Very good start and stop capabilities and displays an effective stutter step to freeze defenders in space.”

Cook has rushed for over 1,000 yards the past three seasons totaling 4,464 yards and 46 touchdowns. In 2016 alone, he ran for 1,765 yards, 19 touchdowns and caught 33 passes for 390 yards and two scores.

In addition to the speculation by several insiders of NFL draft circles, Cook also visited the Redskins earlier this month, and that added some degree of credibility to the idea of him playing for Washington.

However, Cook and Thompson are similar players as both are dual offensive threats as running backs and pass catchers out the backfield. Last season Thompson had his most productive year as a Redskin, accounting for over 700 yards of offense and five touchdowns.

The new contract for Thompson would suggest that he will have an expanded role in the Redskins offense next season and the team may move in a different direction with their first pick in the NFL Draft.

If the Redskins can draft Cook, it will make the running back position the most contested position during training camp and the preseason. Not only would Cook challenge Thompson for playing time he would also challenge current projected starter Robert Kelley as well.

The continued speculation about Cook combined with Thompson’s new contract will make Thursday’s NFL draft and exciting night for Redskins faithful.

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Maurice Hawkins

Maurice Hawkins is a veteran of the United States Air Force. He earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Mass Communications & Journalism from Norfolk State University. Maurice served as a social media organizer for 2012 Barack Obama presidential campaign in the Commonwealth of Virginia. He provided social media consultation for the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC). Maurice serves as one of the lead organizers of the #RedskinsTweetTeam.